What is an endoscope?
An endoscope is an instrument that consists of a long thin tube with a camera on the end. The image from the camera is displayed on a monitor, which allows the operator to view different cavities and body systems without requiring a large surgical opening.
There are two kinds of endoscopes – flexible and rigid. The operator will use either of these depending on the case. For example, the operator may use a flexible endoscope to visualize the upper gastrointestinal tract or colon (gastroscopy/colonoscopy), or a rigid endoscope to view inside the ear canal (otoscopy) or nasal cavities (rhinoscopy). With a full color live-video, abnormalities can be identified and a sample can be taken and sent for further testing. Usually, the operator will be looking for inflammation, lumps, scarring/strictures or any other abnormalities. In the case of foreign body ingestion, the endoscope may be used to visualize and remove the foreign body as well.
Endoscopy is a procedure that is considered to be minimally invasive. While general anaesthesia is still required for the procedure to be done, it is a useful diagnostic imaging tool that helps the veterinarian complete a thorough examination on the patient.
Does my pet need an endoscope?
Depending on the case, your veterinarian will determine if an endoscopy is necessary. These are the common reasons for endoscopy:
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- Difficulty swallowing
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- Persistent vomiting
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- Persistent regurgitation
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- Unexplained weight loss
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- Vomiting blood
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- Persistent diarrhea
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- Bloody stools
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- Ingestion of foreign body
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- Tumours
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- Persistent epistaxis
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- Persistent nasal discharge
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- Persistent coughing
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- Persistent ear infection
In addition to diagnosing diseases, laparoscopic spays can also be done with rigid endoscopes. The benefit of this procedure is a much faster recovery and less pain compared to a regular spay. Rigid endoscopy can also be used in combination with open surgery to reach deeper spaces.
Preparing your pet for an endoscopy
General anaesthesia is required for this procedure to be carried out safely in dogs and cats. Also, in case of an upper gastrointestinal or stomach scope, the stomach needs to be empty in order to thoroughly examine the organ. Therefore, at least 12 hours of fasting prior to the procedure is necessary, and if examining the colon, an enema maybe be given also before the procedure.
Endoscopy can be done on outpatients as well as inpatients, so you can drop your pet off at the clinic first thing in the morning and pick them up in the afternoon/evening.
The results of the endoscopy can usually be known on the day of the procedure, depending on the nature of the examination. For biopsies of tumours, it will require a longer time for results of the histopathology to come back with a diagnosis.
Pros and cons of endoscopy
Pros of endoscopy
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- Minimally invasive procedure
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- Real-time imaging
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- Pictures can be taken and procedure can be recorded
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- Can be done on outpatients
Cons of endoscopy
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- General anaesthesia required
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- Can be an expensive procedure
Which Vetessential clinics provide endoscopy services?
Currently, Kota Damansara Veterinary Centre and Yee Vet Clinic & Surgery provide endoscopy services.
Please contact the respective clinics for more information.
Kota Damansara Veterinary Centre
03-6143 5988
Yee Vet Clinic & Surgery
03-7863 0530